The government has published proposed changes to HIPAA.
In keeping with the new enthusiasm for AI I asked Google AI about the upcoming changes to HIPAA. Here is what Google states:
Recent proposed changes to HIPAA audits include a greater focus on cybersecurity, expanded scope to include more detailed assessments of technical and physical safeguards, mandatory annual compliance audits for covered entities, and a stronger emphasis on evaluating mechanisms to protect against hacking and ransomware attacks, particularly regarding the HIPAA Security Rule; essentially making audits more comprehensive and stringent to better assess overall cybersecurity practices related to protected health information (PHI).
Key points about the changes in HIPAA audits:
- Cybersecurity focus:
The primary focus of new audits will be on assessing how well entities are safeguarding electronic protected health information (ePHI) against cyber threats, including robust password management, network security, and encryption practices.
- Expanded scope:
Audits will now examine a wider range of security measures beyond just administrative safeguards, including physical and technical safeguards, to get a more complete picture of an organization's compliance.
- Mandatory annual audits:
Proposed updates may require covered entities to conduct a compliance audit at least once a year to ensure ongoing adherence to HIPAA Security Rule requirements.
- Risk analysis emphasis:
Audits will likely place greater emphasis on a thorough risk analysis process, identifying potential vulnerabilities and implementing appropriate mitigation strategies.
- Increased enforcement:
With the growing concern over data breaches, the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) is expected to conduct more rigorous audits and potentially impose stricter penalties for non-compliance.
Potential impacts of these changes:
- Increased compliance burden:
Healthcare providers and other covered entities will need to invest more time and resources to ensure their cybersecurity practices are robust and documented to withstand stricter audits.
- Improved data protection:
The enhanced focus on cybersecurity could lead to better protection of patient data from cyber threats.
- Need for expert guidance:
Organizations might need to consult with cybersecurity experts to assess their current practices and implement necessary improvements to meet new audit standards
We are in the process of updating our HIPAA Security Risk Tool to align with the upcoming changes so you will begin to see changes in our portal over the next few weeks and months. The new version of our HIPAA Security Risk Tool will ensure that you are in the best possible position to be compliant with the HIPAA Privacy and Security Rules.
If you are not currently a TLD Systems client now is the time to reach out and continue your HIPAA compliance Journey with a company that understands the needs of a your practice.
For more information please contact TLD Systems at
(631) 403 6687
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